Gervais, who’s joining forces with Simpsons writer Matt Selman for the project, is preparing his popular book series, Flanimals, for the silver screen. The star? A crew of 50 species of creatures that are ugly-yet-endearing. The premise? Gervais’ character, a particularly purple, perspiring, blobby being, sets off on a mission to change the world. For the literary versions, Gervais penned the organism’s adventures, and illustrator Rob Steen provided the visuals. In the upcoming film, Selman serves as writer.

Along with Gervais, rumored vocal contributors include Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Danny McBride, Will Arnett and Kristen Wiig. Flanimals, released by Illumination Entertainment, is set for a 2011 premiere.